NFL Draft 2015: Second round picks to keep an eye on
By Thomas Oide
4. Michael Bennett, DT, Ohio State University
Nov 8, 2014; East Lansing, MI, USA; Michigan State Spartans quarterback Connor Cook (18) is sacked by Ohio State Buckeyes defensive tackle Michael Bennett (63) during the first quarter at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
2014 Stats: 7 sacks, 40 tackles
Drafting Michael Bennett would be a brilliant PR move for the Seattle Seahawks.
Get it? Michael Bennett, the rookie, and Michael Bennett, the polished veteran. I’m sure the Seahawks PR department can come up with a much better campaign than me, but in all honestly, picking up Bennett, the rookie, could be a huge steal for the Seahawks.
It’s pretty hard to quantify whether a defensive tackle will be successful at the next level, but I like using this highlight reel from OSU’s 2013 game against Wisconsin.
The Buckeyes won this game 31-24, but more importantly, Bennett helped hold the Badgers to only 104 rushing yards. Melvin Gordon, who averaged 123 ypg that season, rushed for only 71 yards. James White, who averaged 111 ypg on the ground in 2013, rushed for only 31.
While Ohio State’s defense was loaded that year, Seahawks fans know that a great run defense starts with great defensive lineman.
To me, Michael Bennett, the rookie, looks like that next great guy.
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